Know Your Worth: How to Navigate (& Negotiate) Your Remuneration Package with Confidence

You’ve received a job offer, congratulations!

If you're like many of the people we work with, you're not just looking for a job, you’re looking for growth, balance, fulfilment and a role that really reflects what you have to offer.

That’s why your renumeration package matters.

Your renumeration package is about more than just your base salary. It’s the benefits, perks, and flexibility that shapes your day-to-day experience and supports your long-term goals.

Negotiating your package can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most powerful steps you can take to shape your future at work. And you don’t have to do it alone.

The timing is on your side!

Advertised salaries are rising faster than the cost of living. These days, this is a rare but welcome shift.

For candidates making a move, that means real gains in take-home pay and the overall value of offer. Now more than ever, you’re in a strong position to have a conversation of negotiation and secure a package that reflects your skills, your potential, and your priorities.

At Sharp & Carter, one of Australia’s leading recruitment agencies, we help people take the next step with clarity and confidence. It’s time to know, understand and respect your worth.

First, what is a remuneration package?

A remuneration package is the complete offering your employer provides in exchange for the value you bring to your role. It goes beyond your salary. It can include bonuses, additional leave, flexible working arrangements, career development support, superannuation top-ups, and more.

Every organisation structures their renumeration packages differently. That’s why understanding the full picture (and what you can influence) is key.

What’s included in a remuneration package?

1. Direct compensation

This is the part that hits your bank account. It includes:

Base salary – a set amount paid regularly
Bonuses – performance-based financial rewards
Commissions – often for roles tied to targets or sales

2. Indirect compensation

This is the support and flexibility that impacts how you feel at work and at home. It includes:

Flexible working – remote work, hybrid setups, or flexible hours
Paid leave – annual leave, sick days, and personal leave
Additional leave benefits – like wellbeing days, paid volunteer leave, or parental leave top-ups
Professional development support – budgets, training, or study leave
Company benefits – vehicle allowance, equity options, or insurance packages
Wellbeing perks – gym and leisure memberships, mental health support, and more

These benefits are more than just “nice-to-haves”, they shape your everyday wellbeing and job satisfaction. And right now, many employers are more open to tailoring packages to suit individual needs. So don’t be afraid to ask.

How to approach a remuneration conversation:

We know it can feel uncomfortable negotiating, especially if you’re excited about the opportunity. But asking the right questions isn’t just allowed, it’s expected. Employers want to hire people who know their value and are committed to getting off to a strong start.

Here’s a simple, respectful approach our expert recruiters recommend:

1. Do your homework

Research salary benchmarks for your industry, role, and location. Use reputable salary guidesor speak with your recruiter (we’re here for this!).

Be realistic but also be ambitious.

With rising salaries and talent in demand, now is the time to advocate for what you’re worth.

2. Know what matters most to you

Is it flexibility? Annual leave? Development opportunities? Think beyond the number on the offer letter. Knowing your priorities helps guide the conversation and ensures you’re negotiating what really counts.

3. Open the conversation with confidence

When you’ve received a formal offer but haven’t accepted yet, you’re in the best position to negotiate. You don’t need to demand, just express appreciation and curiosity:

“Thank you for the offer. I’m really excited about this role. I’d love to talk through the package to make sure it reflects the scope of the role and my experience.”

4. Consider the full value

Factor in things like superannuation, tax, insurance, travel, and additional perks. If you’re unsure, ask for a total compensation statement - it helps paint the full picture.

5. Take your time

If an offer comes through and you’re not quite sure, you don’t have to respond immediately. You’re allowed to consider. You’re allowed to ask questions. And you’re absolutely allowed to negotiate.

A simple “Thanks so much for the offer, I’d love to take some time to think it through” is both respectful and wise.

6. Get it in writing

Once you’ve agreed, request a final offer letter that outlines your full package. This protects both sides and ensures you’re starting your new role on the same page.

Email Template: Starting the Remuneration Discussion

Feel free to make this your own, but here’s a starting point for how you could frame the conversation.

Subject: Thank you and Remuneration Discussion

Hi [Hiring Manager's Name],

Thank you so much for the offer—I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to the team in the [Job Title] role.

Before formally accepting, I’d love the opportunity to discuss the overall remuneration package to ensure it reflects the responsibilities of the role and aligns with market benchmarks for similar positions.

Based on my research and experience, I’d be keen to explore a base salary of [$XXX], and I’m also open to discussing other aspects of the package such as [e.g. flexibility, development opportunities, or additional leave].

Looking forward to chatting further and aligning on a package that works well for us both.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Practice makes it less awkward

You don’t need to sound rehearsed, but it helps to practice your key points, preferably out loud. Whether it’s in front of the mirror, with a friend, or even your recruiter, saying it a few times builds fluency and confidence.

Helpful Resources

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Ready to talk through your options?

You don’t have to navigate the next step alone.

At Sharp & Carter, we’re here to help you understand the market,prepare for interviews, and have compassionate and informed, confident conversations - whether you’re staying put, considering a move, or simply exploring what’s out there.

You deserve a role that lights you up and a package that reflects your true value.

This isn’t just about changing jobs. It’s about taking the next step with clarity, purpose, and confidence.

Because your career isn’t just what you do. It’s who you are, what you care about, and where you’re going.

And right now? A new opportunity might be worth more than you think.

Let’s talk about where you’re headed next.

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